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It is with great pleasure that I reflect on the incredible learning, growth, and celebration experienced by individuals and the wider Aquinas community through our Indigenous Program in 2024. This year has once again demonstrated the strength and vitality of our community and the transformative impact of the Indigenous Program at Aquinas College.
Aquinas College has a long-standing commitment to providing Indigenous boys from remote rural locations and urban families with a wonderful Catholic educational opportunity, delivered in the charism of Blessed Edmund Rice. Our Indigenous Program continues to offer these students numerous opportunities to excel across a broad curriculum. Our dedicated staff challenge students to find and passionately pursue their interests, be it in physical education, art, drama, languages, design and technology, computing, or traditional academic pursuits.
An exciting initiative in 2024 between our Indigenous Program and the College’s Careers and Vocational Education Teams has provided Indigenous students with innovative career experiences and pathways while they work towards completing their secondary education. This collaboration has opened new avenues for our students to explore their potential and prepare for their future.
This year marks the 12th year of our partnership with the Australian Indigenous Education Foundation (AIEF). Together, we have provided Indigenous students with a life-changing educational experience capable of transforming lives and enriching the broader Australian community. The dedication of our Indigenous Team, supported by numerous academic leaders, has been instrumental in integrating Indigenous content into everyday teaching. This commitment has deepened the understanding of Indigenous history and culture among all students, further strengthening the bonds between the Aquinas and Indigenous communities.
A highlight of our year was the annual NAIDOC Week celebration. One standout event was the creation of an interactive ‘seek and find’ Indigenous flag art piece, which not only serves as a stunning visual display but also engages students in discovering hidden elements within the sculpture. Additionally, the Indigenous Team introduced an Indigenous-inspired tie that beautifully integrates the history of both Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities and the connection to the land and waterways upon which Aquinas College stands. This tie design, painted by local Noongar artist Bayley Wallam on five panels, was divided into separate art pieces and awarded to custodians. It is with immense pride that I announce AIEF’s recognition for their significant contribution to the education of Indigenous students within Aquinas College, Western Australia, and the broader Australian community.
In conclusion, the 2024 Indigenous Program at Aquinas College has been a resounding success. It has celebrated the rich cultural tapestry of Indigenous Australia and strengthened our commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive educational environment. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our Indigenous Team, students, families, and the wider community for their unwavering support.
As we continue to grow and learn together, I look forward to even more profound and meaningful engagements in the years to come.
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AIEF is making sure there are opportunities for Yolngu kids to get access to the best education possible and making sure that balanda [whitefella] kids learn about Yolngu as well.
Australian Indigenous Education Foundation
Suite 2A, Level 2
2-12 Foveaux Street
Surry Hills NSW 2010
T (02) 8373 8000
F (02) 8373 8001
info@aief.com.au
www.aief.com.au
ABN 13 127 908 187
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